Trump Campaigns to the Left of Ron DeSantis on Abortion

Former President Trump has criticized Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for signing a six-week abortion ban, stating that many pro-life groups opposed such a strict measure.

It was unclear which critics Trump was referring to, as the only pro-life opposition to the Florida heartbeat bill came from groups who did not think the law went far enough in ensuring equal protection for preborn children.

In an interview with The Messenger, Trump refrained from clarifying his own position on abortion but acknowledged the concerns raised by political strategists regarding the bill. He acknowledged that DeSantis had to make his own decisions and signed the six-week restriction, but suggested that some within the pro-life movement believed it was “too harsh”.

When asked about his stance on restrictions after six weeks of pregnancy, Trump stated that he was exploring all options. He also confirmed his support for exceptions in abortion legislation, including cases involving the life of the mother, rape, and incest.

DeSantis signed the abortion bill in April, which protects prenatal human life after six weeks but includes exceptions that allow for the continued killing of innocent children conceived in cases of rape or incest, and also for unintentional abortions.

Instead of delving into the specifics of his abortion stance, Trump highlighted his role in overturning Roe v. Wade, claiming that he was the only president capable of achieving such a feat and attributed this accomplishment to his appointment of three pro-life Supreme Court justices.

The signing of the Florida legislation back in mid April received praise from various pro-life organizations and activists. Students For Life President Kristan Hawkins commended Governor DeSantis for signing the bill, emphasizing that it would reduce the number of abortions in Florida.

Conservative legal organization Alliance Defending Freedom also celebrated the Heartbeat Protection Act, expressing support for Governor DeSantis’ commitment to protecting the health of pregnant women and the unborn.

Pro-life activist Abby Johnson regarded the signing of the bill as a step toward protecting children from conception onward.

Similarly, Lila Rose, the founder of Live Action and a pro-life activist, lauded DeSantis’ decision, highlighting its significance for both Florida and the entire nation.